Gun Engraving -the FEGA COLT 1911 - Episode 1 Gold Inlay Technique

In this first episode of the hand engraved FEGA Colt 1911 project we'll be cutting a section of the slide and installing a raised gold leaf inlay. This series will highlight the making of the Firearms Engravers Guild of America 2019 Auction gun. Starting life as a bare bones Colt 1911 we'll transform this pistol into a work of art. This is a collaboration between 4 FEGA Masters, Bob Strosin, Brian Powley, Barry Lee Hands and myself, and will be finished in Doug Turnbulls shop before heading to Vegas in Jan 2019 for the engravers guild auction after SHOT Show. Future episodes will feature a variety of techniques and will focus in depth on one specific technique for each video.
For Those interested in the tools I use, they can be purchased at the links below through Amazon with free shipping at last check. By using these links, the channel will make a small commission and you'll help keep us running. Thanks
If you order any of my suggested tools through the Amazon links below you'll get free shipping and I'll get a small commission which keeps the channel running. Thanks!

You can find out more about FEGA at

You can learn more about GRS Tools at

Another source for engraving tools is

If you are interested in hand engraving visit the Facebook page that's I moderate with Master Engraver Sam Alfano

Or you can visit the Facebook page from Bryan Powley, the Engravers Notebook.

[krisoluich]

I hope this art form goes on for another thousand years.

[immasurvivor]

You know that feeling when you cannot comprehend skill of another human? Like, is this man even the same species as me?
Stellar work sir.

[billrowan]

I wonder why ya don't see much DIY "easy way to..." engraving video.... excellent work brother!

[areziii]

I have never actually seen this done and I have to admit that this an art to the truest form. I am pleased to have been able to see this.

[sandymitchell]

I must say that I 'am amazed and somewhat saddened at the same time, I just watched videos on cerakote, acid etching, and now this, I am also thinking of woodworkers, leather workers and anyone that is a craftsman. In this world of everything is fast and easy, Disposable, I' am hoping their will be a new generation that will learn from all these wonderful craftsman, I hope skill and quality such as this does not become extinct. what was once pretty normal has now become a luxury in all trades. When was the last time you bought something with character and quality that made you feel good just looking at it, owning it and knowing you'll pass this down in your family from generation to generation? for me its been too damn I hope all these crafts have someone to pass on down too. God Bless

[danthefrst]

Not only fantastic engravings but also almost too great a production value for such a new channel as this.
Thanks for all this. Very nice!

[jgsouth-africa]

Thanks for the video... I am a jeweller started engraving this year i am also a gun enthusiasts and would love to engrave on guns one day.... Many engravers do not want to post free tutorials... There is no training in South Africa so thank you very much for the videos you post!

[sbagwell]

Thank you, I started engraving leather, and being a United States Marine, well new tools and a whole new world of engraving.
FEGA I will be seeing you in the future.
Semper Fi

[larrylambert]

Simply one word for such complex artwork, amazing. This art will never be duplicated with a machine.

[dazthemod]

I just love the creative process. From looking like a disaster to the layman when it’s rough cut, to the masterpiece at the end. Beautiful craftsmanship.

[thomasboswell]

I just made my first engraver from a old singer sewing machine. Treadle powered.i love it. Thank you for all you do and sharing the master knowledge.

[benyates]

Amazing, generous, thoughtful, patient MASTERY in action. THANK YOU for the beautiful inspiration!

[elorangeman]

Honestly, I would love a full 8 hour video at regular speed.

[williamhutchins]

This is just... Wow. I first thought I was gonna be able to do this, but now I know I am nooo where near capable. Thank you for humbling me early! And I have to say you guys are making a beautiful thing! Thank you God and the Founding Fathers for the second amendment we have today so we can see something like this take place! I'll stick to my plating since I'm no where as capable with this! You sir and the other engravers are gods! Please to anyone who reads this. Do NOT let this DIE out! These people have a passion beyond what most of us can only dream of having! 1000% skills!

[neverdieadam]

Truly amazing. Guy asked an engraver how much is your work worth "great answer" priceless!

[leanardflow]

Thank for being kind enough to show us your ways of engraving, it helps alot, GOD BLESS YOU.

[axelgs]

Perfection..Many times I used to watch my close friend Bill Sinclair engrave firearms for me. Bill was one of the top 6 engravers in the world..
I miss him and his work very much. Thanks for bringing that memory back reflected in your skill and perfection 👍👍

[jdleslie]

WOW SIR!!!...I knew engraving was an art form but never looked much into the skill. Master Engraver is a well deserved title for the art you turn out. Truly amazing...thank you for the vid

[mjremy]

What superb work and artistic talent! Now I know why the price is high. Thanks for giving me a view into this wonderful craft. Most satisfying to watch you work. I also learned that gold comes in coils not just thin sheets. This will help with any jewelry repairs I have to do. Many thanks!

[DZPengu]

Absolutely beautiful I know I could've watched that for at least another 20 minutes!